Wish to add some vertical interest to your balcony garden? These eight climbers & creepers can be your pick
In simple words, climbers here refer to the plants that grow upwards using a support (bigger plants, trees, poles or other artificial means). Climbers develop tendrils (thin extensions from the stem) or suckers (stem sprouts) for anchorage or twine themselves around their props. Although they spread naturally, their stems can be tied to lead them to extend towards a particular direction. In landscaped gardens, climbers can not only blur hard lines and soften hardscape walls, but they can also boost the colour and beauty of the space.
Ready to bring some vine goodness to your garden? If you are wondering which plants to opt for, here is a list of climbers that are just right for Indian homes like yours.
- Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea)
Talking about climbers, the bougainvillea are the first plant genus that comes to my mind. It is a low-care vine, commonly recognised by its flamboyant clusters of vividly hued flower-like bracts (specialised leaves). The actual tiny white flowers nestle within. On closer contact one notices its liberally thorny branches. A healthy bougainvillea’s bracts (of magenta, pink, red, orange, yellow or white) create a wonderful splash of colour. Among other types of bougainvillea, B. glabra (also known as paper flower) is widelyprevalent in India.
What it needs:
This ornamental plant requires full sun and well-drained soil. Water it regularly initially for steady growth, but after that make it a good, deep watering occasionally; do not over-water. It is tolerant to drought and salt, making it suitable for raising in hot, dry and coastal climates too.
- Blue morning glory (Ipomoea indica)
Also known as blue dawn flower or koali awa, this evergreen vine features striking blue-purple trumpet-shaped flowers, dark-green velvety heart-shaped leaves and a slender twining stem. It produces fragile new flowers every day during late spring, summer and autumn.
What it needs:
Your Message